Seiki Kato, the longtime Korg executive who helped revolutionize synthesizers and workstations, has passed away at the age of 67, the company announced.
A driving force behind the M1, one of the most influential synths ever made, Kato's leadership helped Korg evolve into a global powerhouse of electronic music. His life's work was inseparable from the company’s evolution, steering it through decades of innovation that would leave an indelible mark on the entire field of music production.
Born in Tokyo in 1957, Kato was the eldest son of Korg's founder, Tsutomu Kato. After joining the organization in 1980, he quickly moved through the ranks, shifting from domestic sales to product planning. By 1985, he had already helped usher in a new era for Korg by playing a key role in the development of the M1, widely regarded as the first true workstation, combining a synth engine, sequencer and digital effects into a single product.
The Korg M1 synthesizer.
Korg
Kato’s leadership extended well beyond product development. In 1988, he moved to the United States to lead Korg USA, strengthening the company's foothold in North America. By 2003, he had ascended to the role of President at the company, in which he served for over two decades.
Korg honored Kato's legacy in a statement, revealing that the influential executive passed away "peacefully" on February 21st following an illness.
"For many years, Mr. Kato dedicated himself to the growth and success of our company, guiding us with exceptional leadership and a warm, compassionate spirit," Korg wrote.
A driving force behind the M1, one of the most influential synths ever made, Kato's leadership helped Korg evolve into a global powerhouse of electronic music. His life's work was inseparable from the company’s evolution, steering it through decades of innovation that would leave an indelible mark on the entire field of music production.
Born in Tokyo in 1957, Kato was the eldest son of Korg's founder, Tsutomu Kato. After joining the organization in 1980, he quickly moved through the ranks, shifting from domestic sales to product planning. By 1985, he had already helped usher in a new era for Korg by playing a key role in the development of the M1, widely regarded as the first true workstation, combining a synth engine, sequencer and digital effects into a single product.
The Korg M1 synthesizer.
Korg
Kato’s leadership extended well beyond product development. In 1988, he moved to the United States to lead Korg USA, strengthening the company's foothold in North America. By 2003, he had ascended to the role of President at the company, in which he served for over two decades.
Korg honored Kato's legacy in a statement, revealing that the influential executive passed away "peacefully" on February 21st following an illness.
"For many years, Mr. Kato dedicated himself to the growth and success of our company, guiding us with exceptional leadership and a warm, compassionate spirit," Korg wrote.